Modern science proved that the red coral is a polyp colony belonging to the genus Corallium, which originated in the Mediterranean sea

The red coral is known as a traditional Mediterranean ornament. It is an organic gemstone – a symbol of vitality and a charm against evil spirits. As such, he was greatly appreciated among people, and it was also deemed a status symbol. It had many purposes: a gemstone, amulet, currency, ornament, medicament, fertilizer, etc.

LUXURY GALLERY, WORKSHOP, MUSEUM, AND A STORE THAT OFFERS A COMPLETELY UNIQUE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

Clara Stones jewellery shop, opened in 2011 in Dubrovnik, is the only store that offers both modern and traditional handmade jewellery with the Adriatic corals. It is one of the last red coral workshops in Dubrovnik where you can see the presentation of jewellery manufacturing. This is a unique opportunity to see how these precious adornments; coral bracelets, earrings, pendants, rings, etc. are made. So, if you want to see how red coral is transformed from raw material to artfully designed jewellery, and learn why red coral is considered one of the most precious materials in the world since antiquity, make sure to visit Clara Stones coral workshop and gallery.

Red coral also had a significant value since the early days of the Republic of Dubrovnik. The local fishermen from Kalamota Island in close proximity to Dubrovnik were specialized in fishing coral. Merchants recognized its value hundreds of years ago and used this precious good for trade all over the world.

Vittorio wanted not only to revive the lost coral craft in Dubrovnik but also to share the red coral passion around the world. Inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Dubrovnik and its surroundings, Clara stones jewellery shop was envisioned as a place that offers a completely unique shopping experience. It is, in fact, a luxury gallery, workshop, museum, and a store dedicated to the king of the Adriatic. Trust us when we say that this a must-visit place when in Dubrovnik. You will have a uniquely pleasant experience of buying stunning beautiful jewellery, along with and the story of its making.

When you buy coral jewellery in Clara Stones shop, together with a selected piece of jewelry you will be given a certificate of authenticity. On it, you will find the Latin name of the coral that guarantees the coral is real and not treated or coloured. We think that Clara Stones coral jewellery is one of the best souvenirs you can bring home from your visit to Dubrovnik. So, make sure you put a visit to their coral workshop and gallery on your Dubrovnik to-do list.

A private boat tour to the Elaphiti Islands by Rewind Dubrovnik comes highly recommended by many travelers, so we decided to take a closer look at it. 

Rewind Dubrovnik is a boating company run by a Dubrovnik born and raised, young yet skilled skipper Lukša. On his Dubrovnik private boat tours, he puts a special emphasis on a personal approach to his guests, making sure they fully and truly enjoy their time. Lukša will show you all the hidden beauties of Dubrovnik’s coastline and islands, as he knows them like the back of his hand.

KICKBACK, RELAX AND ENJOY THE SALTY BREEZE ON YOUR FACE

If you want to experience top-notch boating and touring service, we wholeheartedly recommend booking Rewind’s Elaphiti half-day or full-day boat tour. Lukša will not only be your skipper, but also a knowledgable guide who will share interesting facts and tales about the three Elaphiti Islands you get to visit: Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan.

Rest assured you will be treated with the utmost care so you can carelessly enjoy your sea adventure from the start to the very end! Lukša will prepare everything you need for a memorable fun day at the sea: organize pick up and drop off to your accommodation, provide the water, wine, fruits, towels, masks & snorkels, Go-Pro camera, Wi-Fi, and floaties for children. 

If you wish, he can make lunch arrangements in top-rated local restaurants, tasting of locally produced wine, olive oil, and liqueurs, or organize a guided tour of the islands.

On this Dubrovnik private boat tour, you will have the opportunity to wander off the beaten paths, visit the Blue cave on Koločep, have fun on the sandy beach Šunj on Lopud island, taste good local food on Šipan Island, swim and snorkel in the turquoise clean sea in the small hidden coves, take stunning pictures,… Also, we would like to emphasize that, considering the current situation with the Coronavirus pandemic, Rewind takes all precautionary measures; they are committed to an enhanced cleaning protocol on all boats, and guests are provided with hand sanitizers.

We wanted to make sure all this really is as good as it sounds, so we booked the Elaphiti Islands tour in the summer of 2020. As you can see from the photos we took, there are more than enough excellent reasons why choose Rewind Dubrovnik by boat. Start your adventure and welcome aboard!

We are witnessing a historical moment, for the whole World, for the Earth, for Nature. Indeed, after this COVID-19 pandemic crisis, nothing will be the same anymore. The ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak is having a significant impact on travel around the globe. As much as the world’s and Europe’s current COVID-19 pandemic situation doesn’t look that optimistic at the moment, we monitor its development and act accordingly to Croatian government measures and regulations for your and our maximum safety. Most importantly we strongly believe this situation will not last forever and that it will stabilize within some decent time.

Therefore, we want to remind you that we continue to work hard and fully operational online so you can virtually enjoy planning your next Dubrovnik trip and best alternative solutions on everyone’s mutual satisfaction. These times are extremely unpredictable, therefore we are here to help as best as we can to get through the coming months.

As COVID-19 pandemic situation is changing from day to day and it’s tough to predict how it will develop, we kindly ask you to be patient and wait with your conclusions and decisions. Changing the date of that booked holiday could be the kindest thing to do right now. Since the Croatian summer season is everything but short, we truly believe that you will still be able to enjoy your beautiful and healthy holidays in Croatia. We understand you might be unsure about your travel plans as the COVID-19 situation involves.

During these unique circumstances, please follow the guidelines suggested by the WHO, your local government authorities and health organisations.

Stay safe, healthy and help us save the touristic season 2020.

COVID-19 News and Resources 
Advisory information

• WHO Europe
  
• Coronavirus Q&A (COVID-19)
  
• Croatian Institute of Public Health
  
• Official Government Website for Accurate and Verified Information on Coronavirus
  
• Croatia Airlines – Important Notice for all Passengers with Travel Arrangements

Did you know the first quarantines of Dubrovnik were the islands of Mrkan, Supetar and Bobara in front of Cavtat?

Find out more in our next blog.

Walk in the footsteps of your favorite stars and learn more about Dubrovnik starring role on the big screen.

Highly recommended for Dubrovnik movie tours fans is definitely Game of Thrones tour. With no more series to come, fun doesn’t have to be over just yet. You can bring yourself even closer to King’s Landing by visiting the many filiming locations in Dubrovnik used in the show. Not only does it highlight the influence of the entertainment industry on Croatian tourism, but it also gives you the perfect opportunity to become further immersed in Dubrovnik. 

You can combine Game of Thrones tour with a local history dating from Byzantine time, through Venetian period, Republic of Dubrovnik to recent war history and independence of Croatia. Getting recommendations on things to do in Dubrovnik, day tours, best places to eat, shop. It is also a city that is very photogenic so we encourage you to book Instagram and photo tour, as Dubrovnik is one of the most Instagrammed places in all of Croatia. A word of warning: Dubrovnik is crowded, and Croatia is hardly ‘off the beaten path’ any longer. That said, with some creativity and early wake-up times for the most Instagrammable places in Dubrovnik, you’ll sure walk away with some beautiful Dubrovnik photos to cherish your time there.

When you are already planning on your visit to Croatia, or you are already here, we encourage you to visit top-rated must-see attractions on tailor made tour including all of the Game of Thrones locations as Trsteno, Klis, Split, Šibenik, etc.

Where is the god of tits and wine? Well, we will let you discover when you take a Dubrovnik movie tours with local expert, Ivan Vukovic Vuka.

GAME OF THRONES SOUVENIR SHOPPING

Although the curtains have closed on the HBO, the fandom lives on—and so does the merchandise. Fill that GOT-sized hole in your friend’s heart with the perfect piece of merchandise you’ve come to the right place. If you would like to shop OR sit on Throne of Game of Thrones in King’s Landing series Iron Throne is situated in Dubrovnik city shop located in Boškovićeva 7 address.  If you find yourself in Split, you should visit Game of Thrones Exhibition Museum.

Indeed, it’s never been more simple to rent a boat in Dubrovnik. However, our recommendation is booking with the company Rewind Dubrovnik by boat

Visit their web site and see for yourself why. With just a few clicks you’ll be able to book a tour of your preference and treat yourself with a luxury day at sea with your family or friends.

EXPLORE DUBROVNIK ARCHIPELAGO

Be ready for some mouth-dropping as Dubrovnik archipelago is absolutely gorgeous. The clear crystal water alongside with green islands and the summer’s 30°C will make you want to jump straight from your boat to the water and have the time of your life. Dubrovnik archipelago boasts numerous stunningly beautiful islands; such as Elaphite Islands, Korčula, Mljet, and the rest are on you to discover.

Dubrovnik Sunset Private Tour

Elaphite Islands Private Tour

Korčula Island Private Tour

Mljet Island Private Tour

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?

Skipper
Fuel
Pick up at the preferred location
Water, Wine & Fruits
Wi-Fi, Towels, Masks & Snorkels
Go-Pro Camera

CAPACITY
Up to 8 people

PRICING
Depends on the tour you choose

PAYMENT
Cash, Credit Card
Cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund

How to get to Dubrovnik

Depending on where you start your trip, there are plenty of possibilities to travel to Dubrovnik.

If you choose to start your trip from Dubrovnik, check out flight from your home city. If you are starting your trip from some other place in Croatia, check out Croatia Airlines direct flights, or rent a car, take a bus or get your catamaran ticket with Jadrolinija and avoid all crowds at the border (depending what time of year are you traveling).

To and from Dubrovnik Airport

There’s a number of options for traveling to and from Dubrovnik Airport. Whatever option you take, make sure you look at the stunning coastal scenery during the transfer.

By airport bus

The bus is timed to coincide with flight arrivals at the airport, you may find yourself having to wait for a little while (which shouldn’t really be longer than 15 minutes) for the bus to arrive. (The bus is obviously bringing travelers to the airport, too.) The airport bus also drops people off at the western entrance to the Old Town, Pile Gate – so if you would prefer to be taken to eastern Ploče Gate, you might like to consider taking a taxi. Tickets for the bus cost 35,00 kuna, and there is 7,00 kuna extra charge for luggage. Once you are seated and before the bus has departed, the driver (or assistant) will come round the bus selling tickets. Journey time is around 30 minutes.

By taxi

You will see a taxi rank just outside Dubrovnik Airport. A taxi to/from the Old Town is around 280,00 – 300,00 kuna. Better taxi than Uber. Uber is quite expensive here.

Pre-booking

Safe travels are best travels, even for a short distance. You can fully rely on Laus travel and do pre-booking with them.

July and August are the most exciting times to visit as the weather is beach-perfect and the festival season is in full swing. Summer crowds can put people off, however. The absolute best time to visit Croatia–when crowds are smaller, the weather is ideal and ferries to the islands are still frequent- is May, June or September. If you are winter lover and love Europe during the holidays, you’ve likely experienced the joy of open-air Christmas markets on the main squares and streets. And Dubrovnik (thought no winter wonderland with its 18 Celsius (65 F) and snow cannon) does not disappoint.

Money Exchange

Croatia has its own currency called Croatian Kuna. There are plenty of exchange offices both inside and outside of the Old Town. However, one of the things you should know is that the rate shown on the table is low compared to international currency exchange websites. This is because the commission is already deducted. Because of the fluctuation in currency, for an accurate exchange rate, visit the Croatian National Bank.
Foreign currency can be exchanged in banks, exchange offices, post offices and in the majority of tourist information offices and hotels.

Credit Cards & ATMs

Credit cards (Eurocard / Mastercard, Visa, American Express and Diners) are accepted in almost all hotels, restaurants, shops and cash machines. ATMs accept most international debit cards and a transaction fee of approx. 3,5% is charged for each cash withdrawal. Some ATM’s offer credit card cash withdrawals, fees vary depending on card provider, kindly check with your provider about the same.

Placing Calls

Calling from Croatia works pretty much the same as in any other country. Almost all foreign countries can be direct-dialed. However, international calls can be expensive.

International Calls

To dial abroad from Croatian phones, it is necessary to use the ’00’ prefix, followed by the country code. You should then remove the first 0 of the local phone number.
The country code for Croatia is 385. To call Croatian numbers from abroad, you should dial the area code without the first zero after the country code (for example 00 385 20 xxx xxxx if you are calling someone in Dubrovnik).
International calls from Croatia can be very expensive. For this reason, you might want to consider alternative international calling methods such as international calling cards or Voice over IP (VoIP) calls.

Important numbers

Croatia also uses the European number for emergencies 112, but specific numbers also exist 92 for the police, 93 for the firemen and 94 for ambulances.
The Croatian National Tourist Board also operates 062 999 999; reachable from anywhere in the country, it connects you to travel counselors for only the cost of the call. This “Croatian Angels” service is available in Croatian, English, German and Italian from March to October.

Power Supply

220 V, frequency: 50 Hz

Water in Croatia

Tap water is safe to drink in all of Croatia.

One of the things to know before your travel to Dubrovnik is a couple of words in the native language. „Hvala“ (Thank you) and „Doviđenja“ (Goodbye, pronounced as do-vi-gen-ya). Being polite and respectful of the culture and traditions goes a long way in every country.

2. EXPLORE

So you are full and loving this place, don’t you? So are we. Now, when your productivity level is loaded, it’s time to sink into your interests.

Dubrovnik has a rich history, and visiting the museums in town offers you a glance into the past. My picks are Dubrovnik Sea Aquarium, Rupe, Maritime Museum (places of tradition which not so many visit). War story lovers, go to War Photo Limited and the museum of the Croatian War for Independence, located on the ground floor of the Imperial fort on Srđ mountain. 

3. GET DAY DRUNK / HAVE A MEMORABLE MEAL, FROM SEAFOOD TO STEAK

If neither of is not appealing to your taste, why don’t you get day drunk? You are on vacation, right? 😉 Yes, this isn’t going to win me any sensible points but when was the last time you had a bottomless mimosa brunch? (If the answer’s yesterday, maybe skip onto the next one) but first refill your tummy, it will be grateful to you later on.

If you want amazing food and even better service, then a visit to restaurant Forty-Four is a must when you are in the Old Town. This little gem is so far from the tourist traps and is incredibly reasonable for the quality of its food and service. If you are not hungry yet, go to Palmotićeva street and just enjoy from quick bites to elaborate gourmet platters, D’vino has it all. If you are a beer person, then visit Glam cafe in the same street as they offer a wide choice of craft beer.

4. TAKE A NAP

From experience, do you even fjaka? What exactly is, you ask? Fjaka (pronounce „fee-ah-ka) is the art of doing nothing, the Croatian trend that is quickly becoming the next big lifestyle craze. It is gaining popularity across the world, featured on the BBC and on the website of the Daily Mail. Having said that let’s go a bit outside of the City Walls, eh? But just before that, go to the post office and send some postcards. It’s a wonderful surprise for the people at home. Tell them it’s raining as you write and they’ll love you even more.

5. OUTSIDE THE CITY WALLS

Now, let’s walk to Pile gate and grab that taxi, or a local bus (you can purchase tickets on the Tisak store as they are cheaper than buying them in the bus) and let’s go to the Escape Room. Challenge yourself in a mission to save King’s Landing. With 60 minutes at your disposal, you must work together to search the room, discover clues and solve puzzles. Engage in a heart-racing & addictive mystery-solving mission. Can you make it on time? If not, take your time in the Red History Museum and experience almost half a century of life under the communist regime.

7. DANCE IN THE RAIN CATCHING THE WAVES

Instead of hiding from the rain, get out and enjoy the scenery. Catch dramatic photos of waves breaking at Porporela, Lazareti or Lovrijenac and dance in the rain. Well, kind of 😉

8. PAMPER YOURSELF

I am sure going for a massage you will definitely feel better than when you went in. Also great for working out any kinks you might have acquired trying to sleep on the plane. Check out Energy Clinic Spa, Rixos Libertas, Lacroma hotel or something like Touch of Thai Massage and Spa, and yes you can book a massage in the hotel even you are not their guest.

9. GO SHOPPING

Personally, I’d rather eat my toenails than spend a day shopping in, but wandering around local craft shops can be fun and I love poking around to see what and learn more about the culture. My picks are Kawa souvenir shop, Craft & Stones, etc.

The last but not the least,…

10. DISCOVER DUBROVNIK COUNTRYSIDE or TAKE A DAY TRIP

So here is our top 10 suggestions on what to do in Dubrovnik on a rainy day. Well, if you cannot think of anything more fun on a rainy day, stay in bed if traveling with significant other and have sex.

Enjoy the rain 🙂

If you follow this guide, you will do all the best things one can experience over 24 hours in Dubrovnik. 

OLD TOWN MORNING CHARMS  

If you want Dubrovnik to yourself, get into the Old Town around 7.30 am and take that “I have Stradun all for myself” photo. Since you’ve only got one day in town, I’d skip the sit-down breakfast and just grab a coffee and go. There are several places around town that have takeout coffee and pastries. If you like a leisurely start to your day, then stop for a hearty breakfast to keep your energy levels up throughout the day.

EXPLORE

Dubrovnik has a rich history, and visiting the museums in town offers you a glance into the past. My picks are Rector’s Palace, Sponza, Archaeological museum, Museum of modern art or House of Marin Držić. If you are with kids, visit the Aquarium. Outside of the city, visit the brand new Red History Museum where you can find out how the Communist Party started in Croatia. 

VISIT LOKRUM

You shouldn’t miss a visit to this pretty little island. Have lunch with adorable bunny rabbits and roaming peacocks. You’ll have to take the ferry over but it’s just a 15-minute ride and the scenery is beautiful. Use this opportunity to get some great shots of Dubrovnik from the water. 

IT’S 12.00 O’CLOCK

It would be a shame, shame, shame to miss the Game of Thrones King’s Landing tour while in Dubrovnik, the capital city of the Seven Kingdoms. Stroll the cobblestoned medieval streets and markets and meet the various characters of this bustling city. Meet Ivan and get that authentic local experience from a passionate born and raised Dubrovnik guide.

Take a seat on the Iron Throne located in the Game of Thrones FAN shop (Dubrovnik City shop), which you can find in Boškovićeva street and go GoT crazy.

HIT THE BEACH 

After all that GoT adrenaline, I am pretty sure it’s time to get your swimwear on and jump into the sea. Banje Beach is among the most popular beaches in Dubrovnik. If you happen to visit in the winter, it’s still worth it for the stunning views. If you’re there in spring, summer, or fall you can have lunch at Banje Beach Restaurant before or after you relax by the water. Or, you can order drinks at your cabana or beach chair from the bar.

LET’S EAT

There are a number of spots to eat at in town. Bosnian cuisine is a special mixture of oriental, Mediterranean and continental European cuisine. Čevapi, Burek, Begova čorba, Klepe (Bosnian minced meat dumplings), Dolma, are just some of the dishes that you have to try at Taj Mahal Dubrovnik. 

MEAT MECCA

Gatsby restaurant is a meat mecca, a place for those keen on a great steak. With three types of grills, every dish looks perfect when it reaches your table. Given that the owner is fond of the bottom line of the movie the Great Gatsby, he named the restaurant accordingly three years ago. The intention is pretty clear. You’ll get great food at a great price here, with superb Croatian, Italian and French wines.

PIZZA

For pizza lovers, go to Castro pizzeria. Located near Green Market at Gundulićeva poljana, many locals will tell you they make the best pizza in town. 

SHAKE THINGS UP

Be sure to check out Culture Club Revelin. This nightclub is located inside a 16th-century fortress and it’s the hottest nightclub in town. If you like house music, techno, club mixes, and mash-ups, you can dance until the sun comes up! Even if you don’t like this kind of music, the energy is crazy so you can’t help but have a good time.

You may not be able to see all of Dubrovnik in a day but you should be able to see some of the most famous sights in that time. I always say, “I’d rather visit a place for 24 hours than not visit at all.”